Next Generation Secondary Batteries

Research into the next generation of batteries

With the continued popularity of our hybrid models and the expected growth in the use of electric cars, we have begun research into the development of the batteries that will power our cars in the future.

Collaboration in R&D

Our research started at the beginning of 2010, to develop batteries with the performance to greatly exceed those currently in use such as lithium-ion. This has been accelerated by working in collaboration with engineering institutions, such as the National Institute of Materials Science.

There are two types of batteries that we are conducting research and development into: all-solid state (shown in Figure 2) and lithium-air (shown in Figure 3).

Reducing size

By modifying liquefied electrolytes into solid electrolytes, it allows each cell to connect without the need for individual casings, which means we are able to reduce the size of the batteries themselves.

Figure 2

Reducing weight

In Figure 3, you can see how lithium-air batteries use oxygen in the air as the cathode active material. As a result we can achieve weight savings and increased energy density in our batteries by changing negative-electrode material into metallic lithium.

Figure 3

Another step closer

Through our ongoing analysis of liquid electrolytes and its influences, we are focussing our efforts on the reaction mechanisms of lithium-air batteries. And with the success in reducing solid-surface resistance we feel we are one step closer to achieving revolutionary developments in battery performance.